Myth #1: You need to switch to a 100% raw food diet to experience the health benefits.

While some people adhere to this myth, the reality is that for most of us who are eating n Standard American Diet  (SAD) which is high in processed and fast foods, any increase in fresh, raw foods is beneficial.  The more raw you eat, however, the more benefits you will notice.

Myth #2: Everything you eat on the raw foods diet will be cold.

Absolutely not! This is a myth that many long-term raw foodists still don't know is false! In fact, anything you eat can be warmed up, as long as you don’t heat it above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.  Food can easily be warmed up in a dehydrator, a slow-cooker, or an oven set on low.

Myth #3: The raw food diet consists of only raw fruits and vegetables.

Just like the myth that a vegan food diet consists of nothing more than tofu and sprouts, this one is also false. A raw food diet consists of much more than fruits and vegetables. Seeds, nuts, sprouted grains, seaweeds and juices are all included on a raw diet, as well as some fermented and processed foods such as raw soy sauce, miso, raw nut butters and cold pressed raw oils.  Simple, whole ingredients can be prepared in ways that resemble the foods that we are comfortable consuming, including cookies(!), but that contain healthy ingredients and prepared without damaging the natural health benefits of the food.

Myth #4: The raw food diet is more expensive than other diets.

Any diet can be more or less expensive, depending on your tastes. Some of the most expensive foods on the planet are certainly not raw foods, or even vegetarian or vegan for that matter! Filet mignon and caviar are not raw foods! Certain pre-made raw items will be rather expensive, but some of the best bang for your grocery buck will be found in the produce section of your grocery store. Apples, bananas, salad greens and many vegetables are all a bargain compared to steak and lobster.

Myth #5: You will have to eat all your meals at home when on the raw food diet.

More and more restaurants are beginning to recognize that diners are looking for healthy alternatives to traditional high fat, cooked meals. Many restaurants are beginning to add a vegan or raw food section to their menu.  Salads, however, are always a standard staple for dining out on a raw food diet. The fresh mixture of lettuce, tomatoes, sprouts, cucumbers, avocado, and onions, for example, can become a delectable treat! Most restaurants will also create a salad to order, if you simply make the request!  And, again, unless you are moving to a 100% raw diet, eating from the menu can still be relatively healthy if you make the right choices.

Myth #6: You will spend all your time in the kitchen chopping vegetables and dehydrating foods for hours on end.

Well, you could. But who wants to do that? Salads, smoothies and many raw soups and entrees are quick to prepare and many can be stored for several days or weeks. As someone who often works 7 days a week, with little time (or patience) for chopping and prepping, I personally know how important it is to have healthy whole food ready to consume.  That being said, investing in a Vita-Mix™, food processor and a dehydrator is an excellent investment for anyone serious about incorporating raw foods into their diet.